A BACKLASH from residents about plans for the old Ponteland library site has prompted a rethink from developers.

A public exhibition held on October 26 presented plans for 34 two-bedroom apartments in two four-storey blocks.

One hundred and sixteen residents attended, including seven councillors, and feedback forms, which were completed by 107 residents, expressed concerns over a number of features.

Residents living in the nearby Henderson Court assisted living development were particularly critical, pointing out their worries about the development’s height and proximity to Henderson Court, as well as threats to pedestrian access to their property.

Following the feedback, developer Ascent Homes has modified its plans. The revised plans submitted for approval by MWE Architects, feature 27 apartments built over three storeys.

This means the overall height has been reduced by just under two metres so that they will be lower than Henderson Court.

Ascent has also increased the distance to Henderson Court and reassured residents that the pedestrian access into Henderson Court will be retained, along with a new footpath so that they still have a direct route through the site to Merton Way Shopping Centre.

Duncan Bowman, developments director for Ascent Homes, said: “We are passionate about providing well designed homes which complement their surroundings.

Ascent said the planning application was likely to go to committee in February 2017.